Largest GED class ever graduates at Golden Triangle campus

MAYHEW – Adults frequently earn their GED to prove a point to their children about the importance of education. William Jefferson, on the other hand, was inspired by his children’s success.

“I told myself, if all my children have a degree then I would have to have one myself, even if it’s just a GED,” said Jefferson.

The West Point native made good on his promise to himself Thursday night as he collected his GED at East Mississippi Community College’s Golden Triangle campus along with the largest group to participate in a GED graduation ceremony at EMCC.

Fifty-six grads walked across the stage Dec. 5.

Jefferson earned his GED six years after losing his job at Sara Lee. He had worked for the company 33 years when it closed its West Point plant.

After a depressed year of unemployment, he landed a job at Wal-Mart, where he works to this day. And he could continue to make a comfortable living, but seeing how well his children are doing made him want something more.

Jefferson’s sons are in the armed forces, one in the Navy and the other a Marine. And he has one daughter at Mississippi State University pursuing a degree in criminal justice while another studies to be an ear, nose and throat doctor (otolaryngologist) at Arkansas State University.

“I had to do something to show them all how proud I was of them. My children inspired me to do better and these young kids in the GED program said I inspired them to do better,” said Jefferson.

He plans to take advantage of a Workforce Services scholarship offered to all EMCC GED graduates and continue attending class during the day and working in the evenings.​

William Jefferson, left, and his nephew Malcolm Jefferson, right, pose with their family following the GED graduation ceremony at East Mississippi Community College’s Golden Triangle campus.

CONGRATULATIONS!

Here's a look at the GED graduates who took part in commencement ceremonies on Dec. 5